Kiama Library has been so far unable to provide its popular Click & Collect service, which was brought into action last year during the first lockdown, as this time ‘leaving the house for public education’ is not included in the reasonable excuses.

“The COVID guidelines this time restrict Click & Collect to retail outlets, but we are hoping this can be extended to libraries,” says Ms Hudson, Manager Library Services.

“We are trying to do whatever we can to make sure the community has access to resources during this time, but we need to make sure we are abiding by the restrictions.”

She encourages Library members to access any of their e-Library services, including Borrow Box and Libby.

“Our e-resources are already well used, but some have yet to discover them.

“Library staff are at the end of the phone if people need help getting connected.

“We now have three different platforms, so there are a great range of resources available.”

Staff are still providing their home library service - delivering library materials to people who are unable to leave their house - and reserved books have been posted out.

“Everyone’s books have also automatically been renewed so people won’t have overdue books, although we still have the 24/7 return chute open,” says Ms Hudson.

Kiama Library is planning to hold more online services for residents during lockdown.

This includes celebrating Children's Book Council of Australia Book Week, an annual event championing Australian children’s books and authors.

Library staff will be delivering a special online storytime session on Wednesday 25 August at 10.30am, which will showcase some of the shortlisted picture books. We understand the performance of Norton and the Bear, by Gabriel Evans, will be particularly entertaining.

The link to the session will be available on the Library website at that time.

For the older audience, Ms Hudson recommends an online author event with Tom Kennelly on 9 September, that will go ahead whether or not we are in lockdown. It is the latest in a series of free NSW Public Libraries Zoom events.

“Recordings of earlier author events - with Kyle Perrie, Monica McInerney, Belinda Alexandra and Chris Hammer – can also be accessed on our website.”

While in lockdown, the regular baby storytime, toddler tales and preschool storytime will be held online.